Advertise on podcast: The Total Knee Success Podcast: Your Essential Resource for Navigating Total Knee Replacement

What should you keep doing after physical therapy ends? In Episode 118 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how knee motion, strengthening, walking, balance, and aerobic exercise can fit into a long-term routine after knee replacement. Read Episode 118 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Learn ways to choose activities that support your goals, consider fitness classes or a personal trainer, and adjust your routine as your abilities and schedule change. Find the Total Knee Success Insider newsletter and Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement in the episode notes. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

At six months after knee replacement, you can still improve strength, endurance, balance, and the movements needed for activities you enjoy. In Episode 117, Michelle explains how to identify what is still challenging and gradually build toward goals such as longer outings, stairs, hiking, gardening, getting down to the floor, and outdoor cycling. Read Episode 117 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter She discusses the value of reassessment, continued exercise, and practicing the activity itself, with guidance from research and the 2026 physical therapy clinical practice guidelines. This episode begins the series Protecting Your Progress for the Long Term. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

Walking across your kitchen is one thing. Walking on grass, loose gravel, uneven sidewalks, or hills can feel quite different after knee replacement. In Episode 116, Michelle explains what changes when the ground is no longer level and what contributes to better walking control. Read Episode 116 article & resources Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement You'll hear how knee strength and movement, balance, and coordination work together on changing surfaces, what researchers have learned about uphill and downhill walking, and why your walking device may be useful outdoors even if you no longer need it indoors. This episode completes the four-part Total Knee Success walking series. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 115, Michelle explains why curbs and stairs can feel more demanding than level walking after knee replacement. Going up requires lifting your body, while coming down requires controlling the lowering. Read Episode 115 article & resources Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement The episode covers a single curb with a walker or cane, followed by stairs with a rail and cane using step-to and alternating-foot patterns. You’ll also hear how strength, knee motion, balance, step height, and fatigue influence support choices. This is Part Three of the four-part walking series; Episode 116 will cover hills, grass, gravel, and uneven ground. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 114 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how to recognize readiness for a cane after knee replacement and how to use it with better coordination. You’ll have a better idea of cane fit, hand placement, the cane–surgical leg–other leg sequence, and supported practice along a counter. Read Episode 114 article & resources Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Michelle also explains how step length, balance, fatigue, and your walking pattern help guide decisions about using less support. Episode 115 continues with curbs and stairs. Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 113 of the Total Knee Success Podcast, Michelle explains how to use a walker after knee replacement while working toward a smoother, more natural walking pattern. You’ll have a better idea of walker types and fit, which leg steps first, and how to turn, sit, and stand with support. Read Episode 113 article & resources Free Top Ten Walking Tips Michelle also explains what to notice as your leg control improves and which factors help guide readiness for a cane. This episode begins a four-part walking series. Episode 114 continues with using a cane, followed by stairs and curbs in Episode 115. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

Diane is home after knee replacement, and the expenses continue in smaller pieces. Michelle follows her through the cost of help at home, prescriptions, equipment, therapy and follow-up visits, and medical bills that arrive later. Read Episode 112 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Part Two explains how to identify repeating expenses, compare a provider bill with an explanation of benefits, and keep the charges you have already paid in one place. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Less Pain More Gain Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 111, Michelle follows Diane as she sorts through costs that can appear before knee replacement and on surgery day. Diane checks blood work and medical-visit copays, possible prehab, equipment, hospital and anesthesia estimates, insurance deductibles, federal billing protections, and time away from work. Read Episode 111 article & resources Book! (Prehab) Knee Replacement Game Plan Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle explains which questions to ask the surgical team, hospital, insurer, and employer so the money side feels less like one large unknown. This is Part One of a two-part series. Episode 112 continues with expenses that may appear after you return home. This episode is educational and does not replace medical, insurance, financial, or legal advice. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

After knee replacement, little problems can interrupt an otherwise ordinary day. Laura’s appointment questions were scattered, lunch was stuck on the kitchen counter while she used her walker, and her cane kept falling when she sat down. Read Episode 110 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter In this episode, Michelle follows Laura through three products that helped: a medical planner, a walker tray, and a self-standing cane. Hear what changed for Laura and decide whether any of these ideas would make your day easier. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

Bruce has plenty of friends and an expanding knee replacement shopping list. Michelle follows his choices through five purchases he may be able to skip: a major bathroom renovation, an adjustable bed, a circulating cold machine, a CPM machine, and specialized heel-slide equipment. Read Episode 109 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Hear simpler alternatives, broad U.S. cost comparisons, and research on cold therapy and routine CPM use. Read the show notes for sources and home-equipment guidance. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 108, Michelle follows Carmen as she brings an overnight bag and a delivery box into her home after knee replacement. Five simple questions help listeners think about the item, what their hands need to do, whether they can see where they are going, where they are taking it, and whether carrying it changes the way they walk. Michelle also covers walkers, carts, stairs, smaller trips, lifting restrictions, and signs that it is time to stop and change the plan. Read Episode 108 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Michelle also covers walkers, carts, stairs, smaller trips, lifting restrictions, and signs that it is time to stop and change the plan. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 107, Michelle explains the CDC STEADI framework through Ellen’s experience six months after knee replacement. After two close calls, Ellen uses three screening questions, records what happened, and receives an evaluation focused on the factors that affected her. Read Episode 107 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter The episode shows how those findings lead to specific changes at home and realistic physical therapy activities. Listeners also receive five simple questions for checking floors, lighting, support, turning space, and frequently used items in their own homes. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 106, Michelle explains why balance can still require more care even as strength improves after knee replacement. Through James’s story, she describes turning, uneven ground, dim lighting, age-related changes in vision, the additional attention balance may require with age, and fatigue. Read Episode 106 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter She also explains what details to share with a physical therapist or healthcare provider and when a new or sudden balance change requires medical evaluation. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 105, Michelle explains what to assess after a fall before trying to stand. Marilyn’s story shows why dizziness, wrist pain, and a possible head impact call for help. Michelle uses guidance from the National Institute on Aging and CDC to explain when to remain down, what the published floor-rise sequence includes, and why people with a knee replacement should practice their individual strategy under supervision. Read Episode 105 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter The episode also covers access to a phone or alert device, the helper’s role, and when a fall deserves a broader risk assessment. Updated for 2026! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.

In Episode 104, Michelle explains how to progress from stationary cycling to outdoor riding after knee replacement. Through David’s story, she covers the first full pedal revolution, saddle height, cadence, resistance, spinning versus grinding, upright and recumbent bikes, trainers, flat and clipless pedals, mounting, starting, braking, turning, gears, hills, e-bikes, and choosing a first outdoor route. Read Episode 104 article & resources Free Total Knee Success Insider Newsletter Listeners will learn why comfortable pedaling is only one part of being ready to ride outside and how bike handling, balance, and a person’s response help shape the next step. You might like this Stable Trainer. I love this cushioned seat (saddle) cover, and here's the easily mounted phone holder style I use on my bicycle. Book! Making Sense of Pain After Knee Replacement Free Top Ten Walking Tips Book! Walking Like Yourself Again After Knee Replacement Browse products on Amazon to make your life easier Resources at totalkneesuccess.com Have a question we can answer on the podcast? Click here for Ask Michelle Support the podcast Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to replace individualized medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific condition, surgical decisions, and rehabilitation plan. Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: Some resources mentioned in this podcast may include Amazon affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through these links, the podcast may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Evidence-Based Content Statement: All information presented in this episode is grounded in peer-reviewed research, published clinical guidelines, and current best practices in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Music Licensing Statement: Intro and outro music for the Total Knee Success Podcast is licensed for commercial use. Editing and production for this episode were completed using Descript.